Sag Harbor, NY - November 9, 2018 - Suffolk County Executive Steve Bellone today joined with Paws of War to launch the organization’s first-of-its-kind mobile veterinary clinic that will be solely dedicated to serving veterans and first responders, their companion animals, emotional support animals and service dogs.

“Suffolk County is home to the largest veterans’ population in New York State and we must continue to serve our veterans and their families once they return home,” said Suffolk County Executive Bellone. “I congratulate Paws of War on the launch of this first-of-its-kind mobile veterinary clinic that will provide our Veterans and their furry companions with the necessary services to ensure they are healthy and well.”

Robert Misseri, Co-Founder of Paws of War said: “County Executive Steve Bellone has gone over and above for our Veterans and first responders in Suffolk county, his record is impressive. Launching the Vets to Vet Mobile with him is an honor from all of us at Paws of War.”

The "Vets to Vets" veterinary services will be free of charge to veterans and first responders living in Suffolk County, and soon all of Long Island. Services provided will include spay and neutering, physical exams, vaccines, dental work, micro chipping, testing, nail trimming and much more. The group will use the launch to advocate for service animal wellness, and preventive medicine and exams.

The value of service and companion animals extends far beyond just the veteran they accompany. The veteran’s family, employer, social relationships, and other aspects of the veteran’s life are positively affected by these animals.

While the truck’s primary focus will be in Suffolk County, the goal is to eventually travel across Long Island and beyond. Due to a large number of veterans who are unable to leave their homes to care for their animals, or are unable to afford the expense of routine visits with a veterinarian, Paws of War is able to meet a critical need for veterans with the launch of the mobile veterinary clinic.

Majority Leader of the Suffolk County Legislature Kara Hahn said: “Convenient, accessible and free veterinary care for American heroes who have given so much to protect our nation and our local communities is the least we can do. It will make a real difference in the lives of many who may not be able to afford or access care for their pets and their pets help heal the wounds of all different types of trauma that first responders and veterans know all too well.”

Suffolk County Legislator Susan A. Berland said: “It was a pleasure attending the launch of Paws of War’s new Mobile Vet Clinic. As the Chairwoman of the Legislature’s Veterans Committee, I know first-hand the amazing work Paws of War does for our veterans and the mobile vet clinic is yet another example of the services this organization provides to better the lives of our veterans and their animals. I encourage everyone to support Paws of War and the great work they do for our veterans.”

Paws of War has been a recipient of Suffolk County Marathon funding in each of the last three years; 2015, 2016, and 2017. Paws of War is a nonprofit organization devoted to helping both animals and veterans. Their mission is to train and place shelter dogs to serve and provide independence to United States military veterans that suffer from the emotional effects of war such as PTSD.